Cairns Airport has awarded the contract for its T2 Domestic Terminal upgrade project to a local Queensland company.
Hutchinson Builders will commence the first stage of the $55 million project on February 11, with the project due for completion at the end of 2020.
The upgrade aims to provide passengers with a state-of-the-art terminal that will utilise more natural light and provide a relaxed atmosphere across the terminal.
Expanding to 10,000 square metres, the departures hall will boast additional seating and an improved layout, simplifying navigation of the terminal for passengers.
An additional 2,000 square meters of dining and retail options will also be created.
Cairns Airport is the seventh busiest airport by passenger movements in Australia, and the second busiest regional centre behind the Gold Coast.
Chief Executive Officer, Norris Carter, said the awarding of the contract to Hutchinson Builders was in keeping with the commitment of the airport to support the local community.
“Hutchinson have a great track record in the successful delivery of projects across the Far North and their environmental and sustainable work practices are something we really value,” he said.
Mr Carter said the redevelopment would future-proof the terminal for many years to come and ensure that the six million passengers that are projected to travel through the domestic airport annually from 2027 have a first-class airport experience.
“We want our passengers to arrive excited and depart delighted. The new terminal will provide passengers with a real sense of the region and all it has to offer, with the new line up of retail and food and beverage options showcasing the region’s local produce to the world.”
Hutchinson’s team leader on the project, Paul De Jong, welcomed the announcement and thanked Cairns Airport for providing the opportunity to a local builder.
“Hutchinson Builders has been operating in the Cairns region for over 20 years and we are proud of the strong relationships we have built,” he said.
“As a local builder who employs local workers we are delighted to be working on this project and look forward to delivering this world class facility for Cairns.”
The project is expected to generate 350 jobs during the construction phase and another 150 permanent jobs on completion, contributing to the strength of the local economy.
